Welcome To The Machine: Industrial Chic Interior Design
By Ana Zuravliova
An introduction to industrial chic
Most regions, cities and towns across the UK have heritages rooted in different industries and materials. Sheffield – for example – is known for its steel, Birmingham for its motorcars and our own corner of West Yorkshire is well known for its heritage in textiles and fabrics. The result is a patchwork of former industrial buildings across the country which are currently being repurposed. This has given rise to an exciting design trend which doesn’t try to conceal a building’s industrial past but instead celebrates it – industrial chic.
Industrial chic is an excellent and stylish modern trend. Whether you’re wanting to enrich some of your building’s intrinsic character, or are simply drawn to the style, today’s blog will have some great tips for you!
What is industrial chic decor?
Industrial chic celebrates the legacy of industrial Britain including countless former manufacturing structures that created everything from glass bottles to flour.
While functional buildings in their original guise, these structures of brick and steel became part of the landscape and important aspects of a place’s identity.
As the world changed and many of the industries left the cities, it became important to maintain the fabric of the once beating hearts in our communities.
In recent years Leeds’ Victorian docks, the paint factory in Bristol and countless barns across the countryside have been rescued and modernised.
While retaining their charm and character, there are thousands of attractively renovated spaces all over the country. This shift has given rise to industrial chic.
Raw materials, exposed steel girders and brickwork are key components of industrial chic and provide great inspiration for this contemporary design.
How to create an industrial chic space
Natural woods, grey tones and metallic finishes are three of the best components for enjoying industrial chic. The philosophy behind this trend isn’t about concealment, it’s about having multiple elements on show for the world to see.
A core component of industrial chic is that feeling of longevity and functionality. These buildings have often lasted for centuries and reflecting that quality is very important.
Using high-quality minimalist curtains or panel blinds for example can make a space feel robust yet comfortable. Moreover, everything in the space should have a function, superfluous cushions and lamps for example are discouraged, everything should have a use.
With regards to colour, elegant pale tones create an interesting contrast with the industrial materials found in many of these spaces. An elegant white panel blind used to divide a large space within a brick building will make the space feel contemporary and eminently chic.
Adding industrial chic to a modern home
If – however – you don’t live or work in a converted building but like the industrial chic aesthetic, there are some easy steps you can take to enjoy it in your home.
Accessories
If you don’t have exposed brick walls, look to earthy accessories such as cushions and lampshades. You can also make excellent use of metallic fabrics. Silvers, bronzes, and golds can all help to create a strong industrial chic effect. Remember, to find the perfect tone, you can order up to eight free samples on the website!
Metals
Keeping with metals, many items in our excellent range of lampshades can include silver, gold or copper inners which add a delicate metallic shimmer to any room. Additionally, you can suspend your curtains from metal curtain poles to again add a subtle yet notable style statement.
Blinds
Finally, consider fitting a metal Venetian blind to your window. There are a wide range of colours available but to keep that industrial theme, look for a metallic options such as this Vigor Aluminium Aluminium Venetian Blind.
Antique furniture
To support these choices, also consider introducing some vintage or antique furniture into the space. Dark woods and leathers with a rich patina will help to bring out the qualities of your metallic furnishings while adding a warming and charming effect to your home
You can order up to eight free samples to ensure any new furnishing works well as part of your industrial chic space. Explore the website today to find the perfect colour, material or texture for your home.
